The ocean is the largest body of water on Earth, covering approximately 71% of the planet's surface. It is separated by the continents into vast interconnected bodies of water called oceans.
The ocean is not only the source of life on Earth but also the largest and most mysterious place on Earth. There are still many parts of the ocean that humans have not yet explored. In this article, we will explore some interesting facts about the ocean.
1. Why is the sea blue?
When the sun shines on the ocean, only the blue light is reflected back, while the other colors of light are absorbed by the seawater, so the water appears blue.
2. Why is seawater salty?
Rivers carry vast amounts of salt from rocks and soil as they flow over the land, and deposit this salt into the sea. This is why seawater is salty. Sea salt is obtained by slowly evaporating seawater in salt pans on the coast, and the world produces about 100 million tons of sea salt each year.
3. The ocean is the cradle of all life on earth
The origin of life on earth has been a mystery for a long time. However, with the advancement of scientific research, more and more evidence shows that the first form of life likely arose in the ocean.
This is because the production and continuation of life cannot be separated from water, and the ocean provides the most important water environment for the emergence of many of the most primitive life forms, including bacteria and cyanobacteria.
In addition, the living space provided by the ocean is much larger than that of terrestrial waters, such as rivers and lakes, making it more likely that life forms were born in the ocean.
4. What is in the ocean?
Seawater contains a variety of dissolved inorganic and organic compounds, gases, and organic matter. In addition to the above-mentioned dissolved components, it also contains suspended particulate matter, such as plankton.
The most abundant inorganic constituents after water are chloride, sodium, sulfate, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and bicarbonate, in that order.
5. The problem of marine pollution
With the continuous increase of human activities, marine pollution has become a severe problem. Sources of marine pollution include industry, urbanization, agriculture, shipping, and many other aspects.
Pollutants can affect the survival and reproduction of marine organisms, disrupt the balance of the marine ecosystem, and have an impact on human health and economic interests. Therefore, protecting the marine environment has become one of the most significant challenges that humans must face.
6. Utilization of marine resources
Marine resources are an essential wealth of mankind, including oil, natural gas, sea salt, marine life, marine energy, and more. The development and utilization of these resources can provide energy, food, medicine, and other human needs.
Additionally, marine tourism is also an important way to utilize marine resources, which can promote economic development and cultural exchanges. However, the impact on the marine environment must be taken into account when developing and utilizing marine resources, and sustainable development and utilization practices must be adopted.
The ocean is a complex, diverse, and mysterious world that requires more exploration and understanding to better protect and utilize this vital natural resource. By studying the ocean and its characteristics, we can better understand its importance and work to ensure that it remains healthy and protected for generations to come.
